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2022 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

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  1. Clemson University

    • 4 Year
    • CLEMSON, SC
    • 3,336 reviews
    #1 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Sophomore: When I left high school, I already knew that Clemson University would be the school that I attend. Overall, Clemson provides a lot of different opportunities and it is overall a great school. The athletics here are very good, the professors here are very good and will work with you, and overall we have really good academics. I came in wanting to pursue an Engineering degree, but ended up changing and becoming an Education and the process between that went really smoothly and it was all because of the advisors at hand. Overall and altogether, Clemson provides a safe space, a family atmosphere, and overall it has been a great time here!...Read 3,336 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 51% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,482 Net Price
    • 1230-1400 SAT Range
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  2. Furman University

    • 4 Year
    • GREENVILLE, SC
    • 574 reviews
    #2 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Freshman: Furman University has such a beautiful campus which is perfect because it was designed as a walking campus. It’s really good that Furman is a walking campus so that even those without cars can go to classes without fear of being late or unable to make it. You can make to every building or class within 10 minutes or less. The food here is also really good and comes with lots of options so there’s always something for someone. Academics at Furman are difficult though due to the high academic level that is expected of students. Classes aren’t impossible or boring, but you should be prepared to spend a good chunk of time on your classes and work. It is definitely worth being engaged in your classes and academic life at Furman University...Read 574 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 57% Acceptance Rate
    • $35,621 Net Price
    • 1240-1420 SAT Range
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  3. University of South Carolina

    • 4 Year
    • COLUMBIA, SC
    • 4,304 reviews
    #3 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Sophomore: My first year on campus was absolutely amazing! I stayed in South Quad, one of the on-campus living dorms. It had a great location and I could walk anywhere I needed to go. The campus has nice places to hangout with your friends to study, get food, or socialize between classes. Some of the facilities are somewhat old and starting to show their age, but the university is working on updating a lot of the departments. I am very exciting to see how it all turns out in the end. The on-campus amenities are surrounded by unique local shops and restaurants that have been staples to Columbia for decades. From Five Points to The Vista, there is an array of activities for students to participate in. Overall, UofSC is a great place for anyone looking for a quality education with a low country feel!...Read 4,304 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,787 Net Price
    • 1180-1370 SAT Range
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  4. Wofford College

    • 4 Year
    • SPARTANBURG, SC
    • 366 reviews
    #4 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Freshman: So far I am loving Wofford! One of my favorite qualities about the school is its southern charm. Everyone here is super friendly and easy to talk to. Since the school only has around 2k students, everyone knows or has at least heard of everyone making campus really feel like a community. The activities offered on campus this year have been really fun while also maintaining covid guidelines. Some of these include: free food truck Friday, ice skating and hot chocolate, trivia nights, and scavenger hunts. If there is one thing I could change about Wofford it would be the food options. Right now during covid they aren't offering a wide variety of food and often slack on providing fruit that isn't an apple or banana...Read 366 Reviews

    • A minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 60% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,033 Net Price
    • 1190-1350 SAT Range
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  5. Citadel Military College of South Carolina

    • 4 Year
    • CHARLESTON, SC
    • 396 reviews
    #5 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Junior: The teachers actually care about the success and wellbeing of their students. The school strives to accommodate the various lifestyles of their students while providing safe and disciplined environment. Being in the political science field, the teachers are very good at remaining neutral on viewpoints and presenting all angles...Read 396 Reviews

    • A minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 75% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,723 Net Price
    • 1050-1230 SAT Range
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  6. Southern Wesleyan University

    • 4 Year
    • CENTRAL, SC
    • 249 reviews
    #6 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Junior: I attended years ago (in the 1980s), and I loved it then. Since then, it has expanded immensely and is 10x better than before! I love the options such as the online program, because if the flexibility with family and work. The student to teacher ratio is excellent, and the professors truly care about the students. The reason I rated the party scene as poor is that drinking is not part of the campus atmosphere. It is a Christian University. That works great for me, and I find that Christians know how to have good, clean fun and the loving support of one another, without the vices common to most college campuses. But it wouldn't be fore everyone. My desire is to get a quality liberal arts education with a worldview that embraces the timeless truths of the Bible, with God as our Creator and sustainer, and to live out my faith in a way that seeks to benefit all people of the world through my vocation...Read 249 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 35% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,978 Net Price
    • 950-1150 SAT Range
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  7. College of Charleston

    • 4 Year
    • CHARLESTON, SC
    • 2,179 reviews
    #7 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Freshman: College of Charleston offers such a wide variety of education and outside of school activities. They are also handling COVID-19 very well. Starting off the semester online, then coming to the college, and then finishing it off back online. The College made sure to keep students connected through events online or events where they could social distance. The classes are smaller than most which creates a much more closer learning experience. I feel connected to the teacher and the class through these smaller classes and never feel like I cannot reach out to the staff. Some students complain about the food here but, I am quite pleased with the variety and quality of food. Every day is something different and something new to try. The students are care-free and alive but also keep their education in mind. The dorms have some problems here or there but, I prefer my dorm over my home sometimes! I live in Mcalister Residence Hall, and I'm so glad I'm rooming there. Overall, great college!...Read 2,179 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • $19,764 Net Price
    • 1080-1260 SAT Range
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  8. University of South Carolina - Sumter

    • 2 Year
    • SUMTER, SC
    • 67 reviews

    Sophomore: Having completed one year at the University of South Carolina at Sumter, I can personally claim that the open environment and friendly atmosphere allow for a safe and simplistic style of learning for all students. Being a student-athlete did not limit me in any way in either aspect. Schedules are very flexible and allow for student-athletes to make time for both academics and athletics. Going into my second year at the University of South Carolina at Sumter I intend to make the most of my experience in my final year at this accredited community college...Read 67 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 82% Acceptance Rate
    • $10,219 Net Price
    • 920-1110 SAT Range
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  9. University of South Carolina Aiken

    • 4 Year
    • AIKEN, SC
    • 681 reviews
    #8 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Sophomore: I absolutely love it! The classes are smaller than average so professors can teach more effectively and take time to make sure that students understand the material. The professors, administrators, and staff are very approachable and will do their best to help with any problems you may have...Read 681 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 56% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,042 Net Price
    • 960-1140 SAT Range
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  12. Winthrop University

    • 4 Year
    • ROCK HILL, SC
    • 1,609 reviews
    #9 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Senior: I have attended Winthrop throughout my whole college career. To put it simply, Winthrop is absolutely incredible. 1. They cater to those with disabilities VERY well. I was beyond impressed with how they approached my learning disabilities. Beyond astounding and far better than I could have ever imagined. I do not feel ostracized, but more valued as a student. ...2. The staff and faculty are VERY caring, intelligent, upbeat, open-minded, and they often go above and beyond for their students. I love my professors at Winthrop. I have been able to form meaningful relationships with the faculty at Winthrop University, which is really incredible...3. The campus is beautiful and unique. It is a smaller campus, but not too small. It is the perfect size, compared to the extremely large universities that force students to sprint from one class to the next...Needless to say, I 100% recommend Winthrop University to anyone and everyone looking for a loving community and high quality education!Read 1,609 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • $19,115 Net Price
    • 950-1160 SAT Range
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  13. Lander University

    • 4 Year
    • GREENWOOD, SC
    • 748 reviews
    #10 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Niche User: Overall the campus and staff is awesome! All of my professors were very kind and helpful, they really want you have make good grades. The university itself is just too small and there is little to no "night life", which is why I am transferring. I do recommend Lander, but you have to be honest with yourself if you are okay with going to a small university in a small area...Read 748 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 43% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,009 Net Price
    • 940-1130 SAT Range
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  14. Presbyterian College

    • 4 Year
    • CLINTON, SC
    • 255 reviews
    #11 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Senior: I came to Presbyterian College for their Pharmacy Program, they are extremely family/friend oriented and very welcoming. Presbyterian was very welcoming but some what challenging experience. All of the professors are really kind and very close to their students. However they could have some improvements in diversity and student involvement that caters to all students. One problem was diversity, being a biology major their were little to no, students of color present. Maybe one (me) or two, who were mostly women. Other than being a little isolated and the lack of minorities, this school is a really good school. I love that they give numerous opportunities to their students by networking and offering amazing job/internship opportunities. They also have amazing counseling and student academic/aid. They helped me to stay present and determined during my sophomore and junior year. Overall if I ever wanted to go back to obtain another degree I would consider this school!...Read 255 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 75% Acceptance Rate
    • $19,778 Net Price
    • 1000-1230 SAT Range
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  15. Coastal Carolina University

    • 4 Year
    • CONWAY, SC
    • 1,940 reviews
    #12 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Freshman: To start, I have never attended another school with such amazing academics. I have never done as well here than I have at any other level of school in my life! The social life is so fun and entertaining, even with COVID still being in play. Dining hall food could use some work, but I overall didn’t mind the meals! School spirit is above average which makes it super fun to attend games and cheer on the Chants! The weather is also great but be sure to bring a rain jacket because South Carolina can be unpredictable! Overall great experience and I can’t wait to return in the fall!...Read 1,940 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,111 Net Price
    • 1010-1170 SAT Range
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  16. University of South Carolina - Upstate

    • 4 Year
    • SPARTANBURG, SC
    • 980 reviews
    #13 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Junior: I absolutely love the Criminal Justice curriculum offered at USC-Upstate, as well as the professors that teach the material. I have learned so much in my field of study since becoming a Spartan. The material that I have learned thus far will carry me through my lifetime in not only my personal life, but also in the professional arena, as well as out on the streets while dealing with the public. ...This particular curriculum taught is vigorous and aggressive. However, for the students who are serious and apply themselves to learning the material presented in each class, their knowledge will be greatly broadened, as they become well-rounded professionals in the careers of their choice. ...USC-Upstate is an awesome university! Becoming a Spartan from the application, to financial aid, to registration of classes is easy, because Upstate’s knowledgeable and friendly staff will walk the applicant all the way through the entire process from the beginning until graduation. ...Go Spartans!Read 980 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 58% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,838 Net Price
    • 920-1110 SAT Range
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  17. Anderson University - South Carolina

    • 4 Year
    • ANDERSON, SC
    • 915 reviews
    #14 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Niche User: I loved Anderson University! When looking for a college, I wanted a small school, close to home, rigorous academics, and a division I or division II soccer team. In Anderson, I found all of those things. The student body is a little over 3000. It’s about an hour and a half drive from my home in Atlanta, Georgia. The academic programs are very strong, and many professors have connections with companies and businesses for students post graduation. The soccer team is ranked #22 in the nation among division II schools! I love just about everything about it, and I cannot wait to get started...Read 915 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,599 Net Price
    • 860-1210 SAT Range
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  18. North Greenville University

    • 4 Year
    • TIGERVILLE, SC
    • 577 reviews
    #15 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

    Junior: North Greenville is by far the best University in my opinion. There is so much that you can do. You can really concentrate on your academics there. The professors are really nice too, especially mine! I'm a Music Ed. Major, so it's really important that I understand the material that I am learning at the particular time. The music professors do a really good job on checking on their students as well as encouraging their students and making sure that they are ok and cheering them up if they are sad!...Read 577 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 63% Acceptance Rate
    • $19,124 Net Price
    • 870-1240 SAT Range
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  19. Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College

    • 2 Year
    • ORANGEBURG, SC
    • 97 reviews

    Sophomore: My experience at OC Tech so far has been exquisite! Unlike how movies portray college teachers to be, the teachers and staff at OC Tech are the sweetest people you will ever meet! Teachers will do anything they can to make sure you understand the material whether they set up tutoring times or even stay on a particular topic in class until every student understands it. During my time at OC Tech I have had issues which has caused me to be late and also turn in assignments late. But my teachers never once got mad and always did their best to help me out as much as they could. They are very understanding and very helpful. If I could get my degree 100% from here I would but sadly because they are only a 2 year college, I have to transfer. I wish every school was like OC Tech...Read 97 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $6,438 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
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  22. Charleston Southern University

    • 4 Year
    • CHARLESTON, SC
    • 796 reviews

    Alum: CSU is an excellent, intellectually rigorous university. I learned and grew so much because my professors pushed me to do difficult things. Online learning is only difficult if you don’t take responsibility for your own education. You get out what you put in. ...Beautiful campus. Helpful faculty and staff. CSU is unapologetically Christian but welcoming to all students and their beliefs. That’s what makes CSU so diverse and intellectually rich! You really get to experience what it’s like to engage in meaningful real-life conversations surrounding your field of study. ...This place turns wandering kids into purpose driven adults with a desire to influence their community for good. Cannot recommend this institution more!Read 796 Reviews

    • B minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 50% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,866 Net Price
    • 1020-1200 SAT Range
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  23. University of South Carolina - Beaufort

    • 4 Year
    • BLUFFTON, SC
    • 458 reviews

    Sophomore: The University of South Carolina Beaufort Is a really great school for acedemics. The University has one of the best nursing, communications and Hospitality programs. If you play Women's Soccer or Baseball then this will be a great school to play at. The University of South Carolina Beaufort offers other sports besides soccer and baseball like Basketball, volleyball, Softball, and Men's Soccer but they are only club sports which means they're not division based. The University of South Carolina Beaufort is broken up into 3 campuses. The Beaufort Campus located in Beaufort, South Carolina are for Studio Art/Media Majors, The HiltonHead Campus located in Hilton Head, South Carolina are for Hospitality Majors, and the Bluffton Campus which is the main campus located in Bluffton, South Carolina are for every other major the school has to offer. Even though the campuses are divided based on the particular Major you will be allowed to live in or attend any of the 3 campuses...Read 458 Reviews

    • B minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 63% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,807 Net Price
    • 930-1100 SAT Range
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  24. Coker University

    • 4 Year
    • HARTSVILLE, SC
    • 292 reviews

    Junior: I loved the community and how involved they are with their students online and on-campus! Overall, I recommend this university a lot. Especially if you cannot handle the normal setting of classes. Online is perfect!...Read 292 Reviews

    • B minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 63% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,037 Net Price
    • 900-1230 SAT Range
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  25. Converse College

    • 4 Year
    • SPARTANBURG, SC
    • 608 reviews

    Senior: Converse College is a great place to live and learn! The campus is smaller than most, but very beautiful and natural. It has a very welcoming and safe atmosphere. The students and staff are all very nice. The dorms are good, but pretty old and could use an update. It's very affordable and good value for quality education. The only thing I hate about Converse is when it rains and there's big puddles everywhere...Read 608 Reviews

    • B minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 89% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,849 Net Price
    • 1000-1230 SAT Range
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  26. Spartanburg Methodist College

    • 4 Year
    • SPARTANBURG, SC
    • 194 reviews

    Freshman: I am really pleased with the experience my son is having at SMC. They do have a Bachelors option and based on what I see in terms of hyflex learning during the pandemic, I think he might need to stay here all four years! Extremely well run, excellent communication, and a very committed faculty that do everything to help students learn and grow!...Read 194 Reviews

    • B minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,672 Net Price
    • 820-1020 SAT Range
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  29. University of South Carolina - Union

    • 2 Year
    • UNION, SC
    • 18 reviews

    Junior: My experience at Union is wonderful. The class sizes are not that big at all, say about like 20 - 24, compared to other universities. So you’ll definitely be able to learn and the professors will even remember you and know your name. You won’t feel like just some random number in class which is great...Read 18 Reviews

    • B minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 92% Acceptance Rate
    • $11,665 Net Price
    • 760-970 SAT Range
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  30. Spartanburg Community College

    • 2 Year
    • SPARTANBURG, SC
    • 312 reviews

    Freshman: My overall experience at Spartanburg Community college was excellent. As a freshman, I was very nervous but SCC made it very simple and great place to start at. The professors and students were all very friendly and helpful. I was a student at two campuses and the environment was very welcoming at both. What I really loved was the diversity. Not only with different races and ethnicities, but with the different age groups. I would definitely recommend SCC! It’s a really great place to start!...Read 312 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $3,965 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
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  31. Limestone University

    • 4 Year
    • GAFFNEY, SC
    • 314 reviews

    Senior: I have had a wonderful experience at Limestone as a student-athlete and full time day student. As a small university, it provides smaller class sizes and you get to know all your professors very well. Additionally, it is a close-knit school, with the majority of the students attending being student-athletes. Because of the large variety of sports, there are also many international students and those from around the country that attend, making it a uniquely diverse campus. In the psychology program, I have had the opportunity to talk to many professionals in the field, and even do my own undergraduate research. Overall, Limestone does an excellent job of preparing you for life after graduation and I have enjoyed my time being here!...Read 314 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 51% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,023 Net Price
    • 970-1160 SAT Range
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    Bridgewater College

    • 4 Year
    • BRIDGEWATER, VA
    • 433 reviews

    Senior: My experience at BC was worth the investment and much appreciated! I loved the atmosphere and the college truly desires for you to achieve your dreams. As a small college, relationships were important and everyone loved to talk about anything. Everyone is very helpful on campus. It did not have the best buildings or food but it makes up for it through the ability to feel at home. Thank you!...Read 433 Reviews

    • B minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 67% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,727 Net Price
    • 960-1180 SAT Range
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    George Mason University

    • 4 Year
    • FAIRFAX, VA
    • 4,667 reviews

    Freshman: Mason is a fantastic place to spend my time. My professors are intelligent, interesting, and encouraging; they WANT you to succeed! and they definitely respond to emails very quickly when you have questions due to a topic or homework given. The campus is stunning and cutting-edge. Above all, the property is located just outside of Washington, DC, and has great views on campus especially in the fall with the leaves falling. Although not as opulent or prestigious as Yale or Harvard, GMU will provide you with invaluable professional connections that will help you advance in your career. The people you will meet are amazing and will become your lifetime friends. The food dining halls are good and love the JC for fast food. There are many resources on campus to help you. My advisor is amazing always responds quickly and is always helpful. Classmates are always helpful when you need extra help. so far, I've met with study groups! there are so many people on campus that fundraise...Read 4,667 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 87% Acceptance Rate
    • $20,157 Net Price
    • 1110-1320 SAT Range
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    Southern Virginia University

    • 4 Year
    • BUENA VISTA, VA
    • 373 reviews

    Alum: This school changed the entire trajectory of my life. The small classes were perfect for my learning style, and I felt that my professors genuinely cared about my growth and progress. I developed as a whole person—spiritually, intellectually, athletically, and it changed the way I understood the world around me. Being exposed to so many subjects and ideas helped me discover what I wanted to do professionally and prepared me to be successful in graduate school. I also met my beautiful wife! I couldn't have asked for a better college experience...Read 373 Reviews

    • B minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 98% Acceptance Rate
    • $20,816 Net Price
    • 960-1200 SAT Range
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